A cuff is a layer of fabric at the lower edge of the sleeve of a garment (shirt, coat, jacket, etc.) at the wrist, or at the ankle end of a trouser leg. The function of turned-back cuffs is to protect the cloth of the garment from fraying, and, when frayed, to allow the cuffs to be readily repaired or replaced, without changing the garment. Cuffs are made by turning back (folding) the material, or a separate band of material can be sewn on, or worn separately, attached either by buttons or studs. A cuff may display an ornamental border or have lace or some other trimming.

There are different types of cuffs, and they come in various styles. Here are some of the most common types of cuffs:

• Barrel Cuff: Essentially a band of cloth at the end of the sleeve that is rolled around the wrist, overlapped, and buttoned to itself, the barrel cuff is by far the most common type of dress shirt cuff.

• French Cuff: A wide band of cloth at the end of the sleeve that is folded back on itself, wrapped around the wrist, and held together with cufflinks that fit through a series of four aligned buttonholes. French cuffs are the most formal type of cuff.

• Convertible Cuff: A traditional barrel cuff with a second buttonhole on the other side of the cuff that is unseen when worn normally buttoned, but can be opened up and worn with cufflinks. This makes the shirt much more versatile.

• Rounded Cuff: A barrel cuff with the sharp corners sanded off. Rounded cuffs give off a slightly more casual and relaxed feel.

• Mitered Cuff: A barrel cuff that has had the corners "mitered" or cut at an angle. Its an interesting detail that creates a sharp look.

The type of cuff can dictate the formality level of a shirt. Cuffs with links are the most formal, while those with buttons are the least formal.